Tanzania’s Betting Revenue Doubles in Four Years

Tanzania’s gambling industry has nearly doubled its tax revenue in four years, reaching TSh 260.21 billion in 2024/25 compared to TSh 131.99 billion in 2020/21, while creating thousands of jobs and attracting fresh investment.

According to the Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT), the sector’s tax contributions rose by 97 percent over the period. Officials highlighted this achievement during a joint session with the Treasury Registrar, underlining the role of betting as a growing pillar of the national economy.

The industry now supports around 30,000 jobs nationwide, spanning both formal and informal employment. In addition, new operators have invested more than TSh 66.7 billion in the past two years, strengthening the sector’s growth.

Sports betting and online gaming remain the key drivers. Market forecasts suggest Tanzania’s iGaming sector will generate about US$7.37 million in 2025, with sports betting accounting for 63 percent of activity. Revenues are projected to climb to US$11.34 million by 2030.

Government figures show that in the 2024/25 fiscal year, TSh 17.42 billion ($6.7 million) was collected from the gaming industry. This is expected to rise to TSh 24.89 billion (~$10 million) in 2025/26 as regulators expand oversight, tighten controls on illegal operations and issue more licenses.

Observers note that widespread mobile money use and increased internet penetration are fueling the shift toward online betting, positioning Tanzania as one of Africa’s most dynamic emerging gambling markets.